Universities Start Removing Cladding from Residences

Several universities have begun stripping cladding from the outside of high-rise buildings due to fears raised after the Grenfell tragedy.

After finding similar aluminium cladding modules on its student residence, Bainfield Halls, Edinburgh Napier University ordered it to be stripped and replaced.

Although non-combustible insulation had been fitted behind the panels and sprinkles fitted to the building, the University still decided to replace the cladding as a precautionary measure.

Nottingham Trent University also confirmed three of the seven blocks at its Byron House student complex were clad using Reynobond.

In a statement released by Nottingham Trent, after the temporary reallocation of some students, the university said: "The safety of our staff and students is of paramount importance to the University and its accommodation partner UPP. As such, the University and UPP - which owns and manages the Byron House accommodation - initiated an immediate review into the type of materials used on this building.

"Tests have since shown that these three blocks are clad using Reynobond (PE). In light of this, NTU and UPP are liaising with the fire service as a matter of urgency to agree an appropriate course of action."

Elsewhere, Bournemouth University confirmed that a similar type of cladding has been found on one of its student accommodation blocks, despite the building being reviewed for safety in January last year. An accommodation block in Essex is also under review as is a new development in Newcastle, due to open later this year.